Best Architecture Firms in Upstate SC
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Upstate South Carolina is home to a diverse group of architecture firms that are shaping the region’s buildings and spaces. From homes to hospitals, schools to city plans, these 12 firms each bring something special to the table. This article looks at what makes each firm stand out. Whether you’re planning a project or just curious about who’s behind the area’s buildings, you’ll get a quick overview of these important players in Upstate SC’s architecture scene.
We’ll explore firms that specialize in rustic homes, eco-friendly designs, healthcare facilities, and more. Each company has its own approach and strengths, contributing to the varied architectural landscape of the region. Let’s dive in and see what these firms have to offer and how they’re making their mark on Upstate South Carolina.
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MossCreek Designs
MossCreek is a distinguished architecture firm renowned for its dedication to designing homes that are a true reflection of the American spirit of freedom, beauty, and success. This firm is celebrated for creating bespoke home designs that capture the unique vision and lifestyle of each homeowner. Serving upstate South Carolina, MossCreek stands out due to its personalized approach to architecture and home design.
Unlike traditional drafting or architecture firms, MossCreek is composed of a skilled team dedicated solely to the design of American-style homes. This specialization allows them to offer more tailored and intimate service, giving clients personal access to every member of the firm. This access ensures that the unique talents of each professional are fully integrated into the project, resulting in a harmonious blend of creativity and technical expertise.
One of the unique aspects of MossCreek’s approach is their emphasis on designing custom homes “with” clients rather than “for” them. This collaborative process ensures that each home is intricately crafted around the client’s personality and lifestyle, making every project distinctive and individualized. Their portfolio spans a range of styles including modern luxury homes, modern farmhouse homes, contemporary timber frame homes, and log homes. Each design is not only beautiful but also functional, tailored to be a true expression of its owner.
MossCreek also offers quick, affordable, and easily modifiable home plans. Their ready-to-purchase home plans are a streamlined option for those looking to own a genuine MossCreek home. These plans can be customized to suit specific needs and preferences, providing flexibility without compromising on quality or style.
Customer testimonials highlight MossCreek’s professionalism, creativity, and responsiveness. Clients praise the firm for making the home design process enjoyable and stress-free, with special commendation given to their ability to understand and realize clients’ visions. Their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction has made them the preferred choice for many in Western North Carolina, and their reputation is steadily growing in upstate South Carolina.
MossCreek’s designs are ideally suited for picturesque locations such as mountain or lake settings, with each home serving as a testament to the firm’s ability to blend natural beauty with architectural elegance. Their attention to detail and dedication to craftsmanship ensures that every MossCreek home is not only a dwelling but a work of art.
In summary, MossCreek’s unique blend of personal service, specialized expertise in American-style home design, and a collaborative approach with clients sets them apart from other architecture firms in the region. Their ability to create custom, aesthetically pleasing, and functional homes tailored to the individual needs of each client solidifies their place as a premier architecture firm in upstate South Carolina. For more information, you can visit their website.
MHK Architecture
MHK Architecture & Planning is a renowned architecture firm founded in 2009 in Naples, Florida. The firm has grown significantly since its inception, now consisting of nine studios located in various cities including Greenville, South Carolina, and Charleston, South Carolina. They specialize in custom residential and commercial projects, offering services like architectural design, building design, custom home planning, home additions, remodeling, and more.
One of the distinguishing features of MHK is their unique approach that combines local expertise with the extensive resources of a larger firm. This blend allows them to deliver highly tailored services to their clients while benefiting from the collective experience and talent pool within the firm. Their studios are strategically located in areas with diverse architectural requirements, enabling them to cater to various styles—from beautiful mountain-style architecture that exudes rustic elegance to low country coastal contemporary design.
In the Carolinas, MHK has a robust presence with a particular focus on custom residential projects that harmonize with the lake and mountain settings. The principal of the Carolina operations, Mitch Lehde, is known for his expertise in mountain architectural vernacular, utilizing bold natural materials to blend seamlessly into the serene landscapes of the Western Carolinas. Their projects in upstate South Carolina, such as the McDaniel townhome project in Greenville, showcase their ability to handle complex sites and incorporate European influences in their architectural aesthetics, further setting them apart from other firms in the region.
MHK’s work extends to creating spectacular lakeside properties, like those at Lake Keowee. These projects are characterized by innovative design solutions that maximize panoramic views and integrate indoor and outdoor living spaces, providing a seamless connection with nature. This approach is exemplified in their use of unique design elements such as corner accordion door systems and bubble diagrams to optimize site utilization and vistas.
Their dedication to personalized client service is reflected in the testimonials and reviews from clients who have praised the firm for their creativity, attention to detail, and exceptional character and integrity. For example, clients like Dennis Winkleman have noted how MHK transforms visions into reality, creating dream homes that perfectly match client needs and preferences.
In summary, MHK Architecture & Planning’s combination of local expertise, extensive resources, and diverse architectural styles position them uniquely in the region. Their ability to blend traditional Southern design elements with modern aesthetics, alongside their commitment to client satisfaction, makes them a standout choice for architectural services in upstate South Carolina. For more detailed information, you can visit their website.
Johnston Design Group
Johnston Design Group is an esteemed architectural firm based in Greenville, South Carolina, serving the upstate South Carolina region. The firm is recognized nationally for its pioneering work in sustainable and restorative design, setting itself apart from other architecture firms through a distinct focus on enhancing the well-being of building occupants while respecting and conserving natural resources.
One of the unique aspects of Johnston Design Group is its commitment to restorative design. This approach emphasizes creating built environments that contribute positively to their natural surroundings, aimed at restoring and maintaining ecological balance. The firm excels in designing projects that harmonize with the local ecosystem, a philosophy evident in projects like the Upstate Forever office, which was the first LEED-NC Platinum Certified Project in South Carolina. This project involved the adaptive reuse of a historic building, integrating features like extensive daylighting, low VOC materials, and renewable energy systems, showcasing their expertise in sustainable architecture.
The firm’s portfolio spans various categories including dwellings, workplaces, community projects, markets, and cultural elements. This diversity showcases their versatility and ability to handle different types of architectural challenges while consistently applying sustainable design principles. For instance, their work ranges from residential projects like the eco-friendly Cliffs Cottage to commercial developments such as the innovative PKL Park GVL, a pickleball complex designed to be both functional and environmentally conscious.
Johnston Design Group’s projects are also known for achieving high standards in environmental certifications. Their designs often incorporate advanced sustainable technologies and materials, aiming for LEED Platinum certification, which underscores their commitment to green design and energy efficiency.
A significant driver of the firm’s success is its leadership under founder Jonathon Scott Johnston, whose vision and conviction that every building should enhance its environment has propelled the firm to national recognition. The team’s collective expertise, including professionals like designer David Anderssen, contributes to their robust capability in delivering thoughtful and impactful architectural solutions.
Moreover, the firm places a strong emphasis on community engagement, ensuring that their projects are not only environmentally sustainable but also beneficial for the local community. This holistic approach to design helps Johnston Design Group stand out as a leader in restorative architecture, making a tangible positive impact in upstate South Carolina and beyond. For more information, you can visit their official website here.
McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture
McMillan Pazdan Smith is a distinguished architecture, planning, and interior design firm actively serving upstate South Carolina and other Southeast regions. Practicing since 1955, the firm operates out of multiple studios in cities such as Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and Spartanburg. The organization is defined by its collaborative culture, creativity, and commitment to innovative design solutions.
One of the core values that set McMillan Pazdan Smith apart is their dedication to creating meaningful and lasting impacts through their projects. Their work is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional and designed to improve the quality of life for the communities they serve. They believe in serving with integrity, focusing on relationship-based business models that prioritize trust and mutual respect.
The firm boasts an impressive portfolio of projects spanning various sectors, including commercial, healthcare, education, retail, public spaces, and historic preservation. Some notable projects in upstate South Carolina include the City of Columbia Water Distribution + Wastewater Management facility, the Dr. Phinnize J. Fisher Middle School in Greenville County, and the Montgomery Building. These projects showcase their expertise in designing spaces that are both functional and sustainable.
McMillan Pazdan Smith is a proud signatory of the AIA 2030 Commitment, which aligns with their dedication to sustainable design and climate action. The firm aims to help clients achieve net-zero emissions for buildings by 2030, demonstrating their commitment to reducing environmental impacts through rigorous performance metrics and innovative solutions.
Their approach to design is highly inclusive, focusing on community engagement and participatory planning. Each project is developed through a thorough understanding of the client’s mission, goals, and metrics, ensuring that the final design aligns with long-term community and environmental priorities. This client-focused approach is complemented by their use of advanced technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Virtual Reality (VR), which enhance communication and project outcomes.
Additionally, McMillan Pazdan Smith’s emphasis on construction administration ensures projects are completed on time and within budget while maintaining high standards of quality. Their construction administration team is integral from the design phase through project completion, ensuring the selection of cost-effective materials and techniques.
The firm’s pursuit of excellence is evident in the numerous AIA awards they have garnered, showcasing their design leadership and innovation. By valuing continuous learning and remaining curious, the firm stays at the forefront of design trends and technological advancements, making them a leader in the architecture industry.
Overall, McMillan Pazdan Smith’s unique blend of creativity, sustainability, and community-oriented design makes them a standout architecture firm in upstate South Carolina. Their ability to deliver inspiring, functional environments while maintaining effective project management skills has solidified their reputation as a trusted partner for various clients.
DP3 Architects, Ltd.
DP3 Architects is an architecture and interior design firm headquartered in the heart of downtown Greenville, South Carolina, at 15 South Main Street. Established in 1984 as Design Partners, the firm was founded by Mark S. Eggl, Samual D. Justice, and J. Michael Taylor. They rebranded as DP3 Architects in 2003 to better reflect their expanded vision and expertise.
This firm has carved out a distinctive niche within the realms of higher education, community projects, and the restaurant industry. Their approach to architecture is rooted in context-sensitive design, which allows them to tailor each project to its unique environment, rather than imposing a singular architectural style. This means their projects are meticulously designed to enhance and reflect the community in which they’re located, rather than standing out as mere showcases of the firm’s creative capabilities.
One of DP3 Architects’ notable strengths is their dedication to sustainability and innovation in design. Over their 40-year history, DP3 Architects have demonstrated a consistent ability to adapt and evolve, embracing cutting-edge technologies and design trends that foster collaborative and inspiring work environments. Their new office at the Wells Fargo Center in downtown Greenville exemplifies this, featuring an open layout, cutting-edge technology, and a flexible design that supports both their team and clients’ needs.
What sets DP3 Architects apart from other firms in the region is their deep commitment to their clients and community. Their design philosophy is client-centric, emphasizing the importance of listening and adapting to their clients’ visions and needs. This approach has resulted in a diverse portfolio that includes a variety of projects, such as the Cartwright Food Hall, Scoundrel, the South Greenville Fire Station, and the Clemson University Hardin Hall renovation.
Serving upstate South Carolina, DP3 Architects prides itself on fostering strong collaboration, both within their team and with clients. This collaborative spirit has led to high levels of innovation and problem-solving, ensuring that each project not only meets but exceeds expectations. The firm also invests in nurturing new talent, considering themselves a teaching firm where experienced principals guide new team members through the complexities of architectural design.
Through their adaptable, community-focused approach and dedication to sustainable, innovative design, DP3 Architects have established themselves as a leading firm in upstate South Carolina, distinguished by their unique ability to blend creative concepts seamlessly with functional requirements. For more information, you can visit their website.
Tindall Architecture Workshop
Tindall Architecture Workshop (TAW) is a prominent residential architecture firm based in Greenville, South Carolina. The firm specializes in modern residential architecture, luxury homes, and provides exceptional service throughout the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida. Led by the husband-and-wife team, Matt and Julie Tindall, TAW focuses on creating awe-inspiring homes that reflect the unique styles and needs of their clients.
One of the standout features of Tindall Architecture Workshop is their comprehensive approach to each project. The firm handles new construction, renovations, and additions, guiding clients through every phase of the process to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Their portfolio showcases a versatile range of styles including Craftsman, Contemporary, Mid Century Modern, and Traditional, demonstrating their ability to cater to diverse aesthetic preferences.
What sets TAW apart from other architecture firms in the region is their dedication to personalized service and client satisfaction. They prioritize understanding their clients’ vision and goals and work diligently to bring them to life, ensuring that each home is not only beautifully designed but also functional and tailored to the client’s lifestyle. The firm’s commitment to making the design process fun and engaging further enhances the overall experience for their clients.
Operating largely in upstate South Carolina and expanding their services to other parts of the Southeast, TAW has established a strong reputation for excellence in residential architecture. Their family-owned structure enables them to provide a level of personal attention that is rare in larger firms. The team’s blend of architectural expertise and interpersonal skills ensures that they deliver outstanding, customized results for each project. To learn more, visit their website.
Craig Gaulden Davis
Craig Gaulden Davis (CGD) is a distinguished architecture, planning, and interior design firm with offices in Greenville, South Carolina, and Baltimore, Maryland, serving upstate South Carolina and beyond. Founded in 1957 by Earle Gaulden and Kirk Craig, the firm has a rich history of over six decades marked by professional excellence, innovative design, and technical expertise. Bill Davis, who joined in 1966 and became a partner two years later, helped shape the firm’s reputation and brought his name to the firm’s title.
CGD is celebrated for its thoughtful design and positive impact on the communities they serve. Their approach is client-centric, focusing on understanding and addressing the unique needs of each project. They pride themselves on being involved in the entire design process, from initial concepts to construction completion, ensuring that the final result not only meets but exceeds client expectations. This dedication to customer service is exemplified by their involvement in projects like the South Carolina Children’s Theatre, where they actively engaged with the community and various stakeholders to secure support and funding.
What sets CGD apart from other architecture firms in the region is their multigenerational approach and commitment to continuity. They have maintained a balance of experienced principals and young architects, fostering a collaborative environment where ideas are freely exchanged. This blend of traditional techniques and modern technology allows them to deliver innovative and enduring design solutions. The firm emphasizes the importance of “gray-hair knowledge,” valuing the wisdom and experience of senior architects while integrating the fresh perspectives and technical skills of younger team members.
CGD’s portfolio is diverse, covering various sectors such as cultural arts, civic, education, commercial, health and wellness, and religious facilities. Notable projects include the Peace Center, Greenville County Museum of Art, Roper Mountain Science Center, and Southern First Bank headquarters. Their work is characterized by a deep understanding of the local context and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life in the communities they serve. This regional focus has helped them become an integral part of Greenville’s cultural and architectural landscape.
Another factor contributing to CGD’s uniqueness is their recognition and accolades within the industry. The firm has received over 115 awards for design excellence and was the first recipient of the prestigious American Institute of Architects South Carolina Firm Award. Several of their principals have been honored with the AIASC Medal of Distinction, and five have achieved the highest membership honor in the American Institute of Architects, the AIA Fellowship.
In summary, Craig Gaulden Davis stands out for its rich legacy, dedication to thoughtful and impactful design, and a collaborative approach that bridges generational gaps. Their focus on community-centric projects in upstate South Carolina and beyond has cemented their status as a leading architecture firm in the region. For more information, you can visit their website.
LS3P Associates Ltd.
LS3P is a distinguished architecture firm with a rich history dating back to 1963, originally established by Frank Lucas in Charleston, South Carolina. The firm, which now operates under the name LS3P, has grown significantly from its modest beginnings into a large, multidisciplinary organization with over 440 employees spread across 12 offices in South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. LS3P maintains a strong commitment to the Southeast, including upstate South Carolina, exemplifying a deep investment and passion for the region’s unique climate, culture, and traditions.
What sets LS3P apart from other architecture firms in the region is its combination of deep regional roots with a broad national reach. This allows the firm to provide large-firm expertise and resources while maintaining the personal relationships and service characteristic of a smaller firm. Their mission, “to engage, design, and transform,” underscores their focus on creating meaningful and transformative spaces through a collaborative and innovative design process.
LS3P’s comprehensive range of services includes architecture, interiors, and planning, catering to a diverse array of clients nationwide. This includes notable projects such as the Le Creuset Boutique, characterized by its clean and contemporary design, and military and government strategic design projects like the Advanced Individual Training Barracks at Fort Lee, Virginia. The firm’s approach blends heritage with innovation, as seen in projects like Project Grace, showcasing their ability to merge community history with modern architectural practices.
The firm has a strategic vision that emphasizes design excellence, expertise, innovation, and collaborative engagement. This vision is supported by a robust strategic plan which positions LS3P for future growth and expansion into new markets and sectors. Their commitment to enriching communities is evident through their deliberate focus on context and placemaking, with designs driven by the needs of clients and communities rather than preconceived stylistic notions.
In the upstate South Carolina region, LS3P’s influence is profound with a dedicated office in Greenville. The firm’s historical mergers, such as the 2011 merger with Neal Prince Architects, have expanded its capabilities and presence, particularly in the residential, worship, and higher education sectors. These strategic expansions have enabled LS3P to offer a wide range of services and expertise, further solidifying its role as a leading architecture firm in the Southeast.
LS3P is lauded for its ability to build strong relationships both within and outside the firm. This focus on relationships extends to their clients, team members, and the communities they serve. The firm’s commitment to collaboration and innovation ensures that they remain at the forefront of the architectural field, continuously seeking to elevate design quality and enrich the communities they are part of.
Good City Architects
Good City is an architecture firm that specializes in designing spaces for ministry, primarily serving upstate South Carolina as well as other parts of the Carolinas and Georgia. What sets Good City apart from other architecture firms in the region is its deep understanding and experience with the unique needs of Christian ministries and churches. Unlike many firms that approach projects with a predefined style, Good City tailors its design to the specific goals and heritage of each ministry they serve. Their philosophy prioritizes simple, timeless structures that can adapt to the evolving needs of worship communities.
Good City’s founder, Ron Geyer, brings over 40 years of experience as an architect, interior designer, and churchman, which allows the firm to navigate the intricate requirements of church projects. They listen carefully to their clients, considering the cultural and historical context of each ministry to create spaces that not only meet functional needs but also resonate with the values and traditions of the congregation.
Moreover, Good City offers a broad range of project delivery methods, including design-build and construction management approaches, which are carefully chosen to align with each ministry’s priorities. This flexibility ensures that every project is handled with the utmost efficiency and effectiveness, avoiding the pitfalls of a one-size-fits-all process.
Another distinguishing feature of Good City is their comprehensive approach, which includes helping ministries articulate their purpose, identify strategic needs, and implement practical solutions. This process ensures that the designed space supports growth, change, and the specific mission of the ministry. Good City prides itself on making smart, God-honoring decisions about the use of space to enhance the effectiveness of ministry work.
Additionally, Good City’s work has had a significant impact on various communities. They have designed spaces for a variety of denominations, worship styles, and cultures, all while supporting Gospel-bearing ministries with both their time and financial contributions. This commitment to their clients and communities underscores their unique position within the architectural landscape of upstate South Carolina and beyond.
Markalunas Architecture Group
Markalunas Architecture Group is a distinguished architectural firm serving upstate South Carolina, dedicated to creating inspiring and functional spaces through a cohesive partnership between clients and architects. Their philosophy revolves around the synergy between site and home, design and execution, and vision and fulfillment, ensuring every project is tailored to meet the unique needs of their clients.
What sets M Architecture Group apart from other firms in the region is their comprehensive approach and emphasis on collaboration throughout the project lifecycle. They excel in construction management, meticulously coordinating trade crafts, managing communication, and ensuring detailed execution from start to finish. This thorough and integrated process guarantees high-quality results that align closely with client expectations.
Moreover, M Architecture Group offers a diverse range of services, including new construction, renovations, and additions, interior design, and the development of outdoor living spaces. They bring a deep understanding of the local environment, which allows them to design spaces that harmonize with the natural surroundings of upstate South Carolina.
Their commitment to personalized service and their ability to deliver bespoke solutions make M Architecture Group a standout choice for clients seeking innovative and expertly executed architectural designs. You can learn more about them on their website here.
